mr birling

• Who is Arthur Burling in "An Inspector Calls"?

  Head of the Burling family
• What is Arthur Burling's profession?

  Self-made businessman owning a factory
• What societal context is important for understanding Mr. Burling's character?

  Class systems in early 1900s England
• What does a static society mean?

  Rich stay rich, poor stay poor
• How does Mr. Burling's gender affect his status?

  Men had more power in society
• What does Mr. Burling's self-assured demeanor reveal about him?

  He is used to being in control
• How does Mr. Burling react to interruptions during his speeches?

  He dislikes being interrupted
• What does Mr. Burling's description as "hard-headed" imply?

  He is practical and self-confident
• What does Priestly suggest about Mr. Burling's background?

  He grew up in a lower social class
• Who comes from money in Mr. Burling's family?


  1. Burling
• How does Mr. Burling's desire for a Knighthood reflect his character?

  He craves validation from upper classes
• What does Mr. Burling's inaccurate statements about the Titanic and war signify?

  His lack of knowledge and authority
• How does Mr. Burling view relationships?

  In terms of profits and losses
• What does Mr. Burling say about making one's own way?

  A man has to look after himself
• How does Mr. Burling treat his workers?

  As means to reduce costs
• What does Mr. Burling's arrogance reveal about his character?

  His need for recognition and respect
• How does Mr. Burling react to Inspector Goole's inquiries?

  He tries to intimidate the inspector
• What does Mr. Burling's shortsightedness indicate?

  His inability to foresee change
• How does Mr. Burling view his family?

  As tools for his ambitions
• What is the dynamic between Mr. Burling and Mrs. Burling?

  She is expected to be submissive
• How does Mr. Burling interact with Gerald Croft?

  He tries to impress him
• What does Mr. Burling's relationship with the inspector reveal?

  His authority is challenged
• How does Mr. Burling's character remain static throughout the play?

  He does not change his views
• What does Mr. Burling's concern about his Knighthood signify?

  His focus on social status
• What does the cyclical presentation of the play suggest?

  Characters fail to learn their lessons
• What are the key personality traits of Mr. Burling?

  • Arrogance and pride
  • Capitalist ideology
  • Insecurity masked by confidence
  • Short-sightedness regarding societal change
• How does Mr. Burling's character serve as a foil to Inspector Goole?

  • Mr. Burling embodies capitalist values
  • Inspector Goole represents social responsibility
  • Their conflicting ideologies highlight societal issues
• "community and all that nonsense"
• "I can't accept any responsibility for everything that has happened to everyone"